SALT LAKE CITY — Quincy Miller started his third game of the season Monday night. It has not, and probably will not, become old hat. Basketball has been in his blood, but Miller has gained a new appreciation for simply being out there — now that he has been out there.

"Definitely a blessing, first of all," Miller said. "I've just been excited to play, to be honest, and we're winning, so that's the best part about it. I feel like I'm just going to keep on getting better every game. ... So it's just getting more and more comfortable to me. I appreciate Coach (Brian Shaw) for giving me the opportunity."

And Miller is making the most of it.

The reason he started in the game vs. Utah on Monday had everything to do with his performance the game prior and the trust it engendered in Shaw. Shaw got the services of previously injured starting small forward Wilson Chandler back, but because of Miller's play, coupled with an injury-riddled power forward spot, he chose to go as he had for two consecutive games — with Miller starting.

"That was one of the reasons why I didn't really want to disturb the mix right now," Shaw said. "Obviously, Wilson is our starting small forward. But with him not having practiced for the last couple of days and being available the last couple of games, I didn't really want to disturb what we have going right now."

Miller, in his second season from Baylor, has played the waiting game. But already he has played in more games, logged more minutes, started three times and scored more points than he did last season. He talked about the impact sitting and watching has had on him.

"Honestly, first of all it humbles you," said Miller, who opened eyes with 16 points and 11 rebounds against Orlando on Saturday. "Coming from college, you've been starting in college, you've been starting in high school. It humbles you and makes you look at things in a different way. When I'm on the court, I appreciate it so much. I love being on the court."

Arthur injured. Nuggets reserve power forward Darrell Arthur did not travel with the team and will miss both games on this road trip. He is dealing with a strained left groin.